A big hello and welcome back to the Pink Fresh Studio blog. I am so happy to be here to share with you two layouts using the beautiful Noteworthy collection and the delightful My Favourite Story collection. These layouts highlight my three beautiful children which is why I titled this blog post 'Special to Me'. 

The first layout using Noteworthy is a perfect example how versatile this collection is. At first glance it appears as though this collection is just for the girls but when you pull it all a part you soon realise it's perfect for documenting our boys also. 

I thought it would be fun to go striped with this layout. I loved the light blue grid patterned paper for the base and the plaid blue check was perfect to add that little flair to the sides of the layout, helping draw your eye to the centre. 

I then continued this theme down the centre of the layout. To help the transition from the base paper to my photo cluster I decided to add some mixed media. To do this I used some white gesso and blended it using a makeup sponge. I then used the light blue liquid watercolor and created a water splatter effect. 

To create my feature strip down the centre of the page I used a journal pocket and some die cut ephemera. I was careful to only use pieces that match my color palette. I then positioned my photos running down the centre of the page to keep my stripe theme going. 

I just love the multi color mini puffy alphabet stickers. Having so many colors of each letter to choose from enabled me to perfectly match my color theme. This layout was so fun to put together and I hope it inspires you to create a layout of the special boys or men in your life.

My second layout to share with you is just crazy messy fun!! I just love the liquid watercolors and when the colors perfectly match the collections I just go creative crazy.

I just love everything about this collection right down to the pop of black and white. This layout perfectly highlights what adding a little black and white can do when added with lots of color. 

I started this layout by applying a coat of clear gesso to some white cardstock. Then using the liquid watercolors and a round large brush that soaks up lots of liquid I moved and guided the colors around the page. I love this effect and it ended up being a great contrast to the stripes in the patterned papers.

When you have lots of color it enables you not to have to add too many embellishments. A couple of flowers, a title and just a few cute pieces of ephemera and this layout was done. 

You have probably noticed I added some stitching. Yes, stepping out of my comfort zone I pulled out my sewing machine and added a little stitching. I have to admit it wasn't as tricky as I thought it would be and I love the look. 

I hope my layout has inspired you to get a little crazy with color and if you are brave like I was maybe add a little stitching to a layout. 

Happy Scrapping

Lauren xx